South Korea Consumer Confidence at 3-Month High on Chip Demand
Summary
South Korea's consumer confidence surged in February, reaching its highest point since November, driven by robust semiconductor shipments and a thriving domestic equity market, signaling positive economic momentum.
Key Insights
What is the Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) and how is it measured in South Korea?
The Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI), also known as the Composite Consumer Sentiment Index (CCSI), is a monthly survey-based indicator reflecting households' expectations about economic activity, including views on current and future living standards, household income, spending, and domestic economic conditions. A value above 100 indicates optimistic sentiment where more respondents expect improvements than declines.
Why did South Korea's consumer confidence reach a 3-month high, and what role does chip demand play?
Consumer confidence rose to 112.1 in February 2026 from 110.8 in January, marking the highest since November 2025, driven by robust semiconductor exports and a thriving domestic stock market, which improved perceptions of the economic outlook.